FRP vs GRP Water Tank
Understanding the Difference (and Why They Are Essentially the Same)
FRP vs GRP – if you have come across these terms when searching for water storage solutions, you may wonder what they mean and how they differ. FRP stands for Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (or Fiber Reinforced Polymer), while GRP stands for Glass Reinforced Plastic.
In the water tank industry, both terms refer to the same type of fiberglass-based composite tank. The difference is mainly regional.
In Singapore, the term “FRP water tank” is commonly used.
In Cambodia, the Philippines, and parts of Malaysia, “GRP water tank” is more popular.
Magtech has been installing fiberglass water tanks for more than 35 years, and from our experience, FRP vs GRP is not a comparison between two different products. They are simply two names describing the same fiberglass water tank technology.
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What Does FRP / GRP Mean?
FRP (Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic) is a composite made by combining a polymer resin with reinforcing fibers. For water tanks, these reinforcing fibers are almost always glass fibers, commonly known as fiberglass.
GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) is just a more specific term that highlights the use of glass fibers.
This means:
All GRP tanks are FRP tanks, because they are made using fiberglass.
And in practice, the terms are used interchangeably in the water tank industry.
Most FRP/GRP tanks today are manufactured as modular sectional panel tanks. The panels are produced using a hot-pressed SMC (Sheet Moulding Compound) process, then assembled on-site with bolts, steel supports and gaskets. This allows them to be transported easily and built even in tight spaces or high floors.
There are also one-piece cylindrical FRP/GRP tanks (which is less commonly used nowadays as its cons outweights the pros in the long run), but sectional panel tanks remain the most widely used for commercial, industrial and residential buildings.
On the right is a photo example of the hot press machine use to fabricate Fiberglass Panels from one of our factories.
Advantages of FRP / GRP Water Tanks
FRP/GRP water tanks are used worldwide because of their reliable performance and long lifespan. Here are some of the key benefits:
Corrosion Resistance
Fiberglass does not rust, corrode, or react with water. This makes FRP/GRP tanks ideal for potable water, rainwater, process water and many chemical applications. Stainless steel tanks require coatings or careful selection of grade, but fiberglass avoids these issues entirely.
High Durability and Strength
Fiberglass panels have high tensile strength and can withstand internal water pressure and external loads. A well-manufactured fiberglass tank can last for decades with minimal maintenance.
Lightweight and Easy Installation
The strength-to-weight ratio of FRP/GRP is excellent. The panels are light enough to carry manually and can be assembled without heavy machinery. This is extremely useful for rooftop installations or sites with limited access.
Safe for Drinking Water
In Singapore, FRP/GRP tanks must comply with SS245 standards to be approved for potable water. When manufactured properly, they are completely safe for drinking water storage.
Good Thermal Properties
Fiberglass has low thermal conductivity. Additional insulation boards can also be added into the panel design to help maintain water temperature.
Flexible Design Options
The panel system allows the tank to be customised to different shapes, layouts and capacities. It can be enlarged or reduced by adding or removing panels.
Easy Maintenance and Repairs
If a panel leaks or cracks, specialists can replace that one panel without dismantling the whole tank. In comparison, concrete tanks often suffer from hidden cracks and difficult leak locations.
Magtech’s 35+ Years of Experience in FRP/GRP Tanks
Magtech has been working with FRP/GRP water tanks for over 35 years across Singapore, Malaysia, Cambodia, the Philippines and beyond.
We have installed hundreds if not thousands of sectional fiberglass water tanks for:
potable water systems
domestic water storage
rainwater collection
chilled water make-up systems
process water and general utility water
Our long experience has shown that whether a client calls it an FRP tank or a GRP tank, the performance is the same — strong, reliable and long-lasting when manufactured and installed properly. We also carry out repair works for existing fiberglass tanks, ensuring continued performance over the years.
Feel free to contact us directly if you require our technical support or advice.
